Lewes resident attends Delaware State Fair diligently for 30 years

John Burton, Sr., of Lewes, hasn't missed one day of the Delaware State Fair in the past 30 years.

By Maddy Lauria

John Burton, Sr., of Lewes, hasn't missed one day of the Delaware State Fair in the past 30 years.

Burton remembers his first visits to the fair, describing them as dirty and dusty. Electricity would be lost on the hottest days, something many attendees might take for granted now that they are able to find a little refuge in one of the many buildings that have been built since Burton's first trip to the fair.

"It's tremendous what they've done," Burton said. "They've made leaps and bounds in improvements and expanding and making it more people-friendly. People really want to come here."

Burton camps in the Grove Camping Area on the fairgrounds, returning to his campsite only to wash up and take care of some laundry, he said.

With delicious fair food, animal exhibits and showcasing local organizations, people from all over Delaware and surrounding states flock to the fair to enjoy the nightly parades and additional events, like the Painted Pony Rodeo held Friday night.

"[The fair] is very good for Harrington," Burton said. "The complex has increased Harrington's city activities and helped everyone in the area.